Finish Strong, Start Smart: Building Momentum for the Year Ahead

Whether you are an ED, fundraiser or marketer, this workshop is for you!

So many times we focus on what we didn't do or what we didn't get done. This hamster on the wheel approach leaves us exhausted and often overlooking the things we DID accomplish. Let's change that and start focusing on what's right and what we want to make better in 2026.

In this hands-on workshop, you will create a year in review that highlights achievements and focuses your thinking for the new year. From there, we will create a plan for the upcoming year. Take this time to create a plan moving forward so you can start the new year strong and stay that way in 2026. You will leave with your year in review and feeling energized and ready for the new year!

No matter what your goal for 2026 this session will provide actionable insights to help you finish the year strong and start the new year smart. 

Outcomes

• Develop a year in review to focus on accomplishments
• Release disappointment from 2025 and leave it there!
• Build a simple, straightforward plan to keep you and your team on track
• Bring these tools into your team or board so they can increase productivity too

About the Presenter

Maryanne Dersch coaches and trains nonprofit leaders to master the art of influence, so they can raise more money without feeling rejected or pushy. Her “effervescent badassery” calls you to be more influential in your work, life and even in your own view of self.

She has spent almost thirty years working in the nonprofit world helping organizations communicate more effectively internally and externally. From those experiences she authored, Courageous Communication: Why codependence is making your nonprofit brand boring and what to do about it. She also produces and hosts The Influential Nonprofit podcast and the annual Donor Attraction Forum virtual event.

She is leading a movement to change "nonprofit" to "human investment company" to accurately reflect the contributions of the sector. She’s known for her love of ultrahigh heels, extra-large Diet Cokes, and short karaoke rotations.